The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 13 new cases of Lassa fever and four deaths across the country within the 40th epidemiological week, spanning September 29 to October 5.
In its latest situation report released via its official X handle, the agency said the new infections were detected in Ondo and Edo states, two of the worst-hit states since the beginning of the year.
With the latest figures, Nigeria has now recorded 924 confirmed cases and 172 deaths across 21 states and 106 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in 2025.
The Case Fatality Rate (CFR) stands at 18.6 per cent, an increase from 17.0 per cent recorded during the same period in 2024.
According to the report, 117 new suspected cases were logged during the week, pushing the total number of suspected infections this year to 8,041.
The NCDC noted that over 90 per cent of confirmed cases originated from Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, and Ebonyi States, which continue to serve as the epicentres of the outbreak.
The Centre reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying surveillance, laboratory testing, infection prevention and control, and risk communication across the country, in collaboration with state ministries of health and development partners.
Health authorities urged Nigerians to maintain clean environments, properly store food, and avoid contact with rodents, the primary carriers of the Lassa virus.
They also advised individuals showing symptoms such as persistent fever, sore throat, chest pain, or vomiting to seek immediate medical attention for early diagnosis and treatment.
The NCDC assured that it is working closely with community stakeholders, state health officials, and humanitarian agencies to strengthen response measures and provide adequate care for affected persons.
